Guns on the television and in Iran’s streets as Trump renews war threats
Guns on the Television and in Iran’s Streets as Trump Renews War Threats
Guns on the television and in Iran – As the sun sets over Tehran, the bustling capital of Iran, and the Alborz Mountains retreat into the twilight, the nation’s citizens gather in nightly demonstrations organized by the government. These events, fueled by patriotic fervor, have become a regular sight for nearly three months, since the conflict with the United States began. The rallies, often called “night-gatherings,” draw thousands to the streets, where chants of “Death to America” echo through the air, accompanied by the waving of Iranian flags. Amidst the crowd, vendors sell tea and mementos, including baseball caps and patches emblazoned with the national colors, as attendees express solidarity with their country’s stance against U.S. aggression.
The Rallies and the Nation’s Resolve
One young woman, Tiana, who wore glasses reflecting the Iranian flag’s hues, spoke passionately during the gathering. “I am prepared to give my life for my country and my people,” she said, her voice rising above the rhythmic chants. “Every citizen, every soldier, every leader—our entire nation is ready to fight with everything we have.” Her words contrasted with the latest remarks from U.S. President Donald Trump, who had posted a warning on his Truth Social platform. “For Iran, the clock is ticking,” he declared, “and if they don’t act swiftly, there won’t be anything left of them.” This statement intensified the sense of urgency among Iranians, who now view the resumption of hostilities as an imminent possibility.
At the heart of these rallies, a collective determination to resist foreign intervention shines through. An elderly man, holding a hand-painted sign in Farsi, offered to explain its message. “Our borders are as vital as our nuclear and missile capabilities,” he said, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding Iran’s technological advancements. “We need nuclear power, clean energy, not just a bomb.” His words underscored the government’s strategic focus on maintaining a strong defense posture, even as it refuses to halt its controversial nuclear program—a key demand from Trump to achieve peace.
Weapons and War Readiness
Amid the growing tension, signs of militarization have become more pronounced. Gun kiosks have appeared in public spaces, offering civilians basic instruction in handling firearms. These stations, often staffed by masked individuals from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), suggest that Iran is preparing its population for further conflict. In Vanak Square, a woman in a black chador practiced loading an AK-47 with the guidance of a soldier in military fatigues. Nearby, a small child played with an unloaded Kalashnikov, pointing the rifle skyward before handing it back to her instructor, who smiled as the child’s laughter filled the air.
State television has also amplified the call to arms, with several channels featuring hosts brandishing assault rifles. On the Ofogh channel, male anchor Hossein Hosseini demonstrated his proficiency by firing a rifle into the ceiling of the studio during a live broadcast. The act was symbolic, reinforcing the idea that Iran’s leadership is equipping its people for battle. Similarly, on Channel 3, presenter Mobina Nasiri held an assault rifle with both hands as she addressed viewers. “They sent me a weapon from Vanak Square so I could learn to use it, just like all of you,” she stated, her tone resolute. These televised displays of weaponry aim to unite the public under a shared sense of national duty.
A Nation Divided
Yet not everyone in Iran shares the same fervor for war. In a nearby park, just a short distance from the rally at Tajrish Square, a different atmosphere prevails. The Cinema Museum of Iran is close by, and locals enjoy a quiet evening, sipping tea and browsing books at an open-air stall. Couples stroll hand in hand, their conversations light and unguarded. “No to war,” one young man said as he walked past the crowd, his sentiment a stark contrast to the surrounding enthusiasm.
A university professor, who requested anonymity, sat on a bench with her husband, expressing hope for a change in the nation’s trajectory. “We just want a normal country where our children can have a future,” she whispered, her voice tinged with both resolve and concern. “We want peace,” another young woman added, highlighting the spectrum of opinions within Iran. While the government’s messaging dominates the airwaves, quieter voices advocate for a more peaceful path, fearing the consequences of prolonged conflict.
The escalating rhetoric from Trump has deepened the divide. Fatima, a woman who grew up in London and Dubai, observed the situation with a mix of frustration and resignation. “We know this war isn’t over,” she said. “We know Trump isn’t really going to negotiate. He’s just going to say, ‘You do what I tell you, or I’ll destroy you.’” Her perspective reflects a growing skepticism about the prospects of diplomacy, even as the government continues to push for a unified response to U.S. threats.
With the climate of the Islamic Republic increasingly charged, the government’s hardline messaging appears to overshadow other voices. The nightly rallies, the visible presence of firearms, and the televised reinforcement of military readiness all contribute to a pervasive sense of inevitability. For many Iranians, the conflict is no longer a distant possibility but a reality they must prepare for. However, the contrast between the organized demonstrations and the quiet moments of reflection in parks and cafes illustrates the complexity of public sentiment.
As rumors of an impending U.S.-Israeli strike circulate, the streets of Iran have become a battleground of both ideology and action. The government’s efforts to mobilize support are matched by its emphasis on equipping citizens for defense, whether through public lessons or the display of weapons on television. Yet, amid the fervor, a few remain hopeful for a different outcome. Their voices, though quieter, carry the weight of a nation grappling with the choices ahead.
CNN’s Alex Platt contributed to this report. EDITOR’S NOTE: CNN operates in Iran with the permission of the government.
